Banteay Srei (Constructed: Late 10th century, King/Patron: Rajendravarman, Religion: Hindu/Shiva)

Banteay Srei loosely translates to “citadel of the women” but this is a modern appellation that probably refers to the delicatie beauty of the carvings. Built at a time when the Khmer Empire was gaining significant power and territory, the temple was constructed by a Brahmin counselor under a powerful king, Rajendravarman and later under Jayavarman V. Banteay Srei displays some of the finest examples of classical Khmer art. The walls are densely covered with some of the most beautiful, deep and intricate carvings of any Angkorian temple.

The temples’s relatively small size, pink sandstone construction and ornate design give it a fairyland ambiance. The colors are best before 10:30am and after 2:00pm, but there are fewer tourists in the afternoon.